Popcorn variety

Carousel Popcorn

A colorful popcorn with ornamental ears in mixed shades. It is often grown for fall display and later popped in small batches.

About Carousel

Carousel is a small-eared ornamental popcorn that produces short, plump ears in a carousel of colors, mixing red, mahogany, gold, and near-white kernels. The plants tend toward the shorter side and often set several little ears, a habit similar to strawberry-type popcorns. The colorful ears are popular for fall displays, and the kernels still pop into small, tender flakes for snacking.

Growing Carousel Popcorn

Grow it in a block with plants about 8 to 12 inches apart so the many small ears pollinate and fill well. It fits a normal summer season and is handy in smaller gardens thanks to the compact plants, but keep it separated from sweet corn to protect flavor and color. Harvest when the husks brown and kernels are hard, then cure the ears indoors before using them for decoration or popping.

Other popcorn varieties

Variety characteristics are general guidance for US home gardens; performance varies by climate, soil, and season. Seed and plant availability differs by supplier. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.